I have a passion for colour, not in naturalistic terms, but as an expressive vehicle for my feelings. I am a keen gardener and this is a frequent springboard for ideas although the final piece can be very abstract. Painting is hard, I am happy when I paint.

In November 2003 I started on a series of abstracts reflecting my love of music. They are produced whilst listening to the music of the titled composer or group. Although most influences are based in nature, I also paint people and find the human condition fascinating. The old Dutch landscape artists, 20th century - Ben Nicholson, David Bomberg, Roger Hilton, but contemporary artists too Andy Goldsworth, Frank Auerbach, Willem de Kooning, Craigie Aitchison, Paula Rego, David Hockney, Rachel Whiteread and Rose Wylie. A foundation course at Hastings College was my starting point in my mid 40s for which I gained a distinction in painting. It was the first time I had been exposed to contemporary artwork and it was a wonderful revelation to me. After twelve years at college I now have my own studio at home where I develop my ideas. I hope I will continue to change and be open to new experiences.